L e a d i n g S c h o o l s &
T e r t i a r y I n s t i t u t i o n s
Union Schools — an educational belt in the heart of Graaff-Reinet
The Union Schools are a family of three English-medium co-educational schools based in the picturesque town of Graaff-Reinet in the Karoo Comprising Union Pre-School, Union Preparatory School and Union High School, the relationship between the three schools ensures that specific requirements for each stage of the pupils’ development are met
The weekly and termly top-class boarding establishments offer a “home from home” for girls and
boys from grade 1 to matric
With all three of the schools’ beautiful campuses and boarding facilities situated adjacent to one another, the schools form an educational belt in Graaff-Reinet, where pupils thrive in a vibrant and safe environment, supported by a foundation of excellence and Christian values
Union Pre-School offers a high standard in pre-school education for children from the age of three onwards
Union Preparatory School for
grade 1 to 4 is renowned for highquality education and ensures that pupils are fully prepared academically, socially, emotionally, creatively and physically to make their school careers especially meaningful and productive
Union High School for grades 5 to 12 combines the highest standards of academic excellence, competitive sport and a diverse and vibrant cultural programme to provide a balanced education and opportunities
for a variety of pupils with different needs
The schools have created a happy environment where all pupils have opportunity for growth and are encouraged to reach their full potential in academic, cultural, sporting and spiritual activities under the guidance of professional educators, enabling them to become fulfilled, self-reliant and responsible citizens
A child can expect success here, experiencing the best of country liv-
ing coupled with modern-day schooling
There is no better way to discover everything about the Union Schools than to visit them
For more information, e-mail uhsmarketing@unionschools co za, call +27 (0) 49-891-0262 or visit www unionschools co za Follow the Union Schools on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to stay up to date with the latest news from the Union Schools
GAINING KNOWLEDGE: The Union Schools are a family of three English-medium co-educational schools based in GraaffReinet Pictures: Supplied
IN THE KAROO: An Aerial view of Union Schools in Graaff-Reinet
Kip McGrath Walmer celebrates a decade of helping pupils reach their potential
In 2025, Kip McGrath Walmer celebrates 10 years of empowering pupils through personalised tutoring
Since opening its doors in 2015 the centre has supported about 800 school pupils helping them build confidence and achieve academic success
With a decade of experience the Walmer branch has developed a unique approach to learning
Each lesson blends written and computer-based activities ensuring pupils stay engaged while reinforcing key concepts
Learning programmes are tailored to each pupil’s individual needs allowing them to progress at a pace that challenges them while solidifying essential skills
At the heart of Kip McGrath Walmer is Chrizelle Prinsloo an experienced educator with a background in psychology
As the centre’s director she brings a combination of teaching expertise and psychological insight to support pupils’ academic and personal growth
A qualified teacher Prinsloo has worked in mainstream and special needs schools locally and internationally spanning government private and international institutions
Passionate about boosting children’s confidence she tailors learning approaches and materials to suit individual needs
She values strong relationships with pupils and parents providing insights into their holistic development
ACADEMIC PROGRESS: Kip McGrath Walmer’s unique approach to learning blends written and computer-based activities, ensuring pupils stay engaged, while reinforcing key concepts Picture: Supplied
The Kip McGrath Walmer tutors go beyond academics
They take a personal interest in each pupil’s wellbeing, offering encouragement and unwavering support
They serve as mentors and motivators, encouraging pupils even before they fully realise their own capabilities
The centre’s ultimate goal is to help pupils reach their full potential, instilling pride in their achievements and ensuring they feel satisfied with their progress at school
As Kip McGrath Walmer marks a decade of excellence in tutoring, the team remains committed to helping every child to thrive
With a focus on confidence, growth and academic success, the centre looks forward to continuing its mission for years to come
At Kip McGrath,
Walking alongside your child in their academic, faith journey
At Kabega Christian Independent School, we believe that education is not just about textbooks and exams; it’s about nurturing the whole pupil
For 25 years, our Christian high school has been dedicated to providing a learning environment where each pupil is seen, heard and valued
We are proud to offer a caring, compassionate and academically rigorous atmosphere where your child can thrive
One of the hallmarks of our school is the exceptional care our teachers show for each pupil
With class sizes averaging 23 pupils, our teachers can build meaningful relationships, ensuring that every pupil receives the personalised attention they deserve
Our teachers don’t just focus on academics; they take the time to understand the unique needs and gifts of every pupil, guiding them not only in their studies but in their personal growth as well
Our teachers embody empathy, fostering a safe and supportive space where pupils feel valued and encouraged to ask questions, express themselves and explore their potential
We believe in the power of a
Christian-centred education to guide pupils towards becoming compassionate leaders who are equipped to make a difference in the world
As we celebrate 25 years of excellence, we invite you to experience the difference that a caring and dedicated faculty can make in your child s education
Join the Kabega Christian School family and let us walk alongside your child in their journey of faith, learning, and growth
We believe in the power of a Christian-centred education to guide pupils towards becoming compassionate leaders who are equipped to make a difference in the world
HOLISTIC EDUCATION:
Since its establishment in 2014, Curro Westbrook has pursued its mission of offering a holistic education that nurtures academic brilliance, creative thinking, positive discipline, childfriendliness, and a strong Christian ethos Picture: Supplied
Curro Westbrook: A decade of excellence and innovation
Nestled in the heart of Westbrook Estate, Curro Westbrook has been a cornerstone of educational excellence for more than a decade
Under the dedicated leadership of Frans van der Walt, this independent school has become a beacon of progressive learning for children from as young as three months to grade 12
Since its establishment in 2014, Curro Westbrook has pursued its mission of offering a holistic education that nurtures not only academic brilliance but also creative thinking, positive discipline, child-friendliness, and a strong Christian ethos
It s a vision that has guided the school s growth, ensuring pupils thrive in an environment that fosters curiosity, integrity, and leadership
One of the school s standout features is its forward-thinking curricu-
lum
With a strong focus on 21st-century teaching methods, Curro Westbrook offers exciting programmes such as robotics and coding, preparing pupils for the digital age
The school s experienced educators follow a well-structured curriculum, giving each pupil the foundation they need to succeed academically, while exploring their passions
The achievements speak for themselves The school s academic excellence shines, most notably with a remarkable 100% matric IEB pass rate in 2023 and 2024
In addition, Curro Westbrook has excelled in sports and cultural activities, celebrating numerous victories that highlight the well-rounded nature of its pupils
The school s commitment to com-
munity involvement continues to strengthen its position as a leading educational institution
As Curro Westbrook looks to the future with excitement and innovation, the expansion of its high school with state-of-the-art classrooms and enhanced facilities is a testament to its ongoing commitment to providing the best education possible
Curro Westbrook invites prospective families to experience its offerings first-hand at its Exploration Day on Saturday March 15, from 9-11am
For more information or to book a spot, contact Melissa Viljoen at melissa v01@curro co za or call 041-3966300
Here s to a future where every pupil continues to reach new heights, empowered by Curro Westbrook s vision and values
70 years of Alexan excellence
Alexander Road High School is celebrating its 70th birthday this year and the school is proud to stand out as a beacon in the Gqeberha educational landscape, bringing opportunities for its pupils to pursue academic excellence, cultural brilliance and sporting stardom
When it comes to describing the Alex experience, there is no better source than the pupils themselves
I would recommend Alex to those who want to have a healthy balance of academic achievements and extra-curricular activities, says Nathan Brown, a grade 9 pupil who consistently places in the top 10 in his grade as well as being a member of the first boys water polo team, the chess team, mathematics relay and debating
Mikayla Gould, a new grade 8, is already immersed in the school
Mikayla has just played in her first water polo tournament, and has been chosen for the U14A hockey side, but she was also drawn to the school’s many societies
The wide variety of cultural and club opportunities in the form of Alex’s numerous societies is something rarely found elsewhere whether your interest is beating the clock as a Speedcuber, bobbing along to K-Pop, riding the waves (or the ramps) as a board-rider, tackling the slopes with the hiking club, Tenrec, or waxing lyrical with the poetry and creative writing clubs there is
A natural choice if you're looking for more than just a school
a place for everyone This is one of the reasons Kungawo Ntanjana, in grade 10, chose Alex
As a member of Interact, Young Animal People, events, cricket scoring and mathematics relay, she has embraced the offerings
In the academic sphere, Kungawo is one of the many pupils who take advantage of the IEB (Independent Examinations Board) further studies offerings at Alex
When she is not busy with one of her societies, or on the athletics track or netball court, Kungawo is puzzling through advanced mathematical problems in the extra subject further studies mathematics
Alex also offers further studies in English which is where Nerisha Ramsamy a grade 11 who placed second in the grade last year spends time delving into the complexities
of literature and film study
Not content to limit herself to one discipline, though, Nerisha also takes further studies in mathematics and is a keen competitor in mathematics relays
Pupils at Alexander Road are given ample opportunities to express themselves while being supported in a disciplined and structured space
With a focus on values and character education, Alex fosters a safe environment for personal growth
Ranngu Mudau in grade 12 says:
“The school is a space that allows everyone to thrive ”
Ranngu takes on the role of Royal Gatekeeper in this year’s production of The Whiz
Alex has a long and proud tradition of excellence in dramatic arts both in the classroom (with a matric
average of 74% last year) and on the stage
The productions are a highlight in the Gqeberha theatre calendar and compete with professional musicals in their production and entertainment value
Ranngu s talents do not only lie in the arts, though He is a top 10 academic and a Mathlete
Brodie Collett, another matric pupil, attributes his academic success to the staff
“The teachers at Alex are so dedicated to helping students ”
Brodie is a computer whizz who takes both computer applications technology (CAT) and information technology (IT)
He made it to the second round of the Programming Olympiad in 2024 and this year he has his sights on making it to the third round
“The amazing computer labs (we have seven) and teachers” make IT Brodie’s favourite subject
With six pupils achieving more than 85% for IT in last year’s final examinations, Brodie is set to join their ranks
This success is built on the digital technology, coding and robotics programme which all the grade 8s and 9s experience
While academics is one of the priorities, Alex pupils are supported in every sphere that piques their in-
terest
Alex is a school which has no problem adapting to the times
The cutting-edge code of conduct is reviewed annually and has been specifically created to prepare pupils for the real world
As long as pupils look neat and follow the guidelines, they are all allowed to grow their hair, wear earrings, and choose between uniform options including the formal blazer, tie and trousers, but also the more comfortable (and practical for hot African summers) variform of a golf shirt and quantec shorts
Brodie notes that these guidelines are a great concept that Alex has; it is something I think most schools should incorporate
The unisex toilet cubicles are often cause for misconceptions by those who have not visited the school site
The school still has four sets each of separate, single-gender bathrooms and changing rooms for boys and girls, but there are also three separate, self-contained cubicles off the tuck shop quad which anyone may use
In an educational landscape where competition is fierce, Alex is a natural choice for pupils who are looking for more than just a school
So, set foot into Alex and experience an educational revolution in a space that “allows everyone to thrive”
PROUD PUPILS: Alexander Road High School is a special environment, say pupils
Nerisha Ramsamy, Ranngu Mudau, Brodie Collett, Nathan Brown, Kungawo
Ntanjana and Mikayla Gould Picture: Supplied
The Hill College — your pathway to academic success
Since its establishment in 1963, The Hill College has stood as a beacon of quality education, dedicated to nurturing the academic success of pupils in grades 10, 11 and 12
As a private co-educational Further Education and Training (FET) institution, the college has honed a unique approach which prioritises academic success, personal growth and future readiness
At The Hill College, small class sizes create an intimate and focused
learning environment where students receive individualised attention from experienced educators
This pupil-centred approach ensures that each student is guided towards maximising his or her personal potential, leading to improved academic outcomes and expanded career opportunities
With a reputation built on 62 years of educational expertise, the college remains committed to delivering progressive, forward-thinking
education
More than just an academic institution, The Hill College cultivates an environment of trust, respect, and accountability
Pupils are treated as young adults and expected to embody responsibility and self-discipline
With a firm yet supportive code of conduct, the college strives to foster a culture of encouragement, personal accountability and integrity
The results speak for themselves: pupils at The Hill College consistently show an average academic improvement of 10-15%, which can make a critical difference in securing university placement or residence
This proven success formula has enabled pupils not only to excel in high school, but also to transition seamlessly into their tertiary education
A walk through The Hill College reveals an atmosphere of purpose,
energy, and mutual recognition
Here, education is not about averages, but about empowering each pupil to achieve his or her personal best
With a strong sense of community and an unwavering commitment to student success, The Hill College remains a treasured institution where happy pupils become productive achievers, The Hill College is the place to be
Mount Pleasant Primary
— a vision with a view
The school is situated in the heart of the beautiful, leafy suburb of Mount Pleasant on a hill that overlooks the Port Elizabeth harbour as well as Schoenmakerskop
We cater for families living mainly in the suburbs of Mount Pleasant, Lovemore Heights, Lovemore Park, Broadwood, Pari Park, Providentia, Miramar, Greenshields Park, Walmer Heights, Springfield, Sardinia Bay, Kini Bay and Seaview
We are a co-educational, parallelmedium public primary school catering for grades RR to 7 in English and
Afrikaans This year, we are 111 years old Our Founder s Day was April 6 1914 From humble beginnings to a proud and beautiful institution in Gqeberha a vision with a view
We invite Afrikaans parents of 4-6 year olds to our upcoming Olimpiese Spele Opedag on Saturday March 15, to come experience what we have to offer See our Facebook page for registration
Our English classes fill up very quickly, but any parent is welcome to contact the school for a private school tour
SUBLIME SETTING: situated in the heart of the beautiful, leafy suburb of Mount Pleasant on a hill that overlooks the Port Elizabeth harbour as well as Schoenmakerskop Picture: Supplied
DISCOVER NEW POSSIBILITIES:
During the Nelson Mandela University annual open day, you will be able to connect directly with representatives from all our faculties, gain insights into our diverse range of programmes, and also meet lecturers and students who will provide you with course specific information Pictures: Supplied
Unlock your future at open days
Are you ready to embark on your higher education journey?
Nelson Mandela University invites you to explore the possibilities at our annual open days in May Join us at our south campus in Gqeberha, and at our George campus, to discover why Nelson Mandela University is an ideal environment in which to learn and grow
Nelson Mandela University is named after the iconic statesman Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who transformed this country through his unwavering commitment to social justice and equality
Navigating the transition from school to university can be daunting, which is why attending institutional open days are so important, as these events are designed to simplify the process and provide you with as much information as possible to enable you to make an informed decision
During these events you will be able to
connect directly with representatives from all our faculties, gain insights into our diverse range of programmes, and also meet lecturers and students who will provide you with course specific information
Colleagues from our various support service divisions, such as the student access and enrolment office, will also guide you through the application process and answer any application-related questions you may have
Beyond academics, you can also experience the diverse student life which awaits you
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience
Nelson Mandela University first-hand
Whether you’re a prospective student, parent, teacher, or simply interested in learning more, our open days offer something for everyone
Mark your calendars for our open days this May and unlock your potential at Nelson Mandela University!
GQEBERHA 16 & 17 May 2025
Madibaz Indoor Sports Centre, South Campus, Summerstrand
GEORGE 23 & 24 May 2025 George Campus
Contact details for more info
E: Nosithembele mrara@mandela ac za | T:041 504 2164 (Gqeberha)
E: Monica tshangana@mandela ac za | T: 044 801 5111 (George)
ARTISTIC FLAIR: Nelson Mandela University has a range of courses to choose from
Celebrating 25 years of excellence in education
This year Insight Learning Centre & College celebrates a milestone of 25 years of academic excellence
Over the years we’ve built a legacy of nurturing young minds and preparing them for success both in their academic career and in their adult lives
The school is one of only five in the entire Eastern Cape to achieve a 100% pass rate for the last five years
This outstanding accomplishment underscores the high standards of education we provide and the dedication of our teachers that ensure that every learner reaches their full potential
We are proud to serve a diverse learner body offering specialised learning for LSEN (Learners with Special Educational Needs), remedial teaching, and mainstream education from grade R to grade 12
Our tailored approach meets the unique needs of each learner, ensuring they thrive in an environment where they feel supported, valued and encouraged
In addition to our academic programmes, we offer vocational courses that cater to learners with a more practical and hands-on approach to learning
These courses help learners develop important skills for the real world
We equip these learners with skills they will need in the workforce and provide opportunities for those interested in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures
With small class sizes, we guarantee that every learner receives individual attention
Teachers understand the strengths and challenges of each learner, and they adjust
their teaching methods to match the pace and ability of the class
As we celebrate 25 years we remain committed to shaping well-rounded confident and capable individuals ready to take on the world
Here’s to another 25 years of excellence in education!
‘Through hard work to the stars’ for Lawson Brown High pupils
Lawson Brown High School strives to be an effective school by providing education in a happy, but controlled environment where pupils are guided to realise their potential in academics, service, sporting, cultural and religious fields
The school’s motto “Per ardua as astra” (through hard work to the stars) emphasises this ethos Lawson Brown offers all three prominent languages in the province; with English and isiXhosa as home languages and Afrikaans as first additional language
Besides the compulsory subjects other subjects include physical sciences life sciences geography history consumer studies business studies visual arts music and CAT
Applications:
Applications to attend Lawson Brown in 2026 are open until March 26 2025 Application forms can be obtained from the school or its website: www lawsonbrown co za Pass rate:
Lawson Brown High School achieved an excellent 11% increase in its matric results for the class of 2024 The school offers numerous extra-curricular activities with some of the achievements in the past year including: Chess:
Lawson High pupils represented the Eastern Cape at the Interprovincial Chess Championship tournament in Limpopo in 2024
Sanlam WOW Spelling Competition:
Pupils participated in this spelling competition for English Afrikaans and isiXhosa
Grade 8 pupils Phiko Mgedezi Linamandla Monti and Lelethu Masikana represented the school at national level in Stellenbosch for isiXhosa
Athletics:
Lawson High athletes participated in the Gqeberha High Schools Athletics event with
Lihle Mangcotywa going on to the next round to represent the school at Metro Athletics
Choir:
The 80-member choir is known for its activeness in choral performances in and around the metro
It received a silver award at the 2024 ATKV choral competition
Interact:
The Interact Club which is all about giving back to the community donates baby gift hampers to Dora Nginza Hospital’s neonatal ward annually for babies born during the Christmas season
Thirty hampers were donated to the hospital in 2024
Steel band:
Having started in 1997 the band is known for its diverse repertoire ranging from classical jazz pop reggae and amapiano genres It excels in national Eisteddfod and music competitions
History Society:
The History Society’s main objective is for grade 11 and 12 pupils to have a first-hand visual experience of the topics they cover in their syllabus Pupils visit historical sites that they learn about in class with the aim of stimulating a different perspective and to improve understanding of topics
For the past two years the society visited the Steve Biko Centre in Ginsberg In 2025 they are working towards a tour to Robben Island in April
They are appealing to the public to extend a helping hand with any donations towards the trip
The school may be contacted for further information
Contact: 041-374-3172
Email: lawsonbrown@mweb co za
PLAY AND LEARN: Pupils from Insight Learning Centre & College Picture: Supplied
Career success starts at Eduvos
Shaping potential, student by student, towards Africa s prosperity
Eduvos Nelson Mandela Bay offers more than over 20 accredited qualifications, internationally recognised in commerce, humanities, information technology and law
High-quality education is made accessible through partnerships with leading funding and bursary providers, ensuring every student s academic journey is possible
Stedin focused on producing well-rounded leaders of tomorrow
Stedin College and Primary School is situated at 1 Victoria Drive, in Walmer
Set on a spacious, safe and secure campus formerly the old Walmer Country Club Ste-
Providing an outlet for creativity and community service, the school’s Environmental Club has embarked on several projects aimed at making pupils aware of environmental conservation
High-quality education is made accessible through partnerships with leading funding and bursary providers, ensuring every student’s academic journey is possible
Eduvos supports students beyond graduation through its Employability Centre, offering career fairs, networking events and industry partnerships
Employers seek Eduvos graduates for their skills, knowledge and adaptability
Eduvos has integrated AI literacy into its curriculum and equips students with future-ready skills
They also offer Esports, where students can compete in campus leagues and national events like Comic Con and rAge, fostering teamwork and strategic thinking
Eduvos cares about its students overall wellbeing, and its most recent partnership with the SA Depression and Anxiety Group provides essential mental health support, ensuring students have access to the resources they need to succeed, both academically and personally
Your future starts at Eduvos
Enrol today and become part of a learning experience which is innovative, inclusive and career-driven
Visit www eduvos com today
din is an affordable, coeducational, Christianbased, independent day school
Stedin is part of the St Christopher’s Group of Schools that draws from nearly 40 years of experience in running schools
Stedin opened its doors in January 2022, with classes from grade R to 8
In 2026, Stedin will have its first class that will write the National Senior Certificate examinations
Stedin has also introduced coding and robotics and digital technology to keep in step with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, thereby opening gateways to the digital future
Stedin’s wide choice of subjects caters for all pupils, while allowing them to enter into tertiary education on an equal footing
Sports fields are being developed, which will provide for cricket, football, rugby, netball, hockey and volleyball
There are also four squash courts for the development of squash as a sport
It is hoped that in the future, when the golf course has been re-established, that golf will also be added as a school sport
Sport is an important part of the holistic development of Stedin’s pupils, encouraging them to develop a lifelong habit of living active and healthy lifestyles
Debating and Interact are two prominent cultural activities that provide outlets for creativity, and the choir often entertains the pupils, visitors and guests
Stedin also participates in The Herald Isuzu Schools Quiz and has reached the semifinals twice
Coupled with Stedin’s motto, Onwards and Upwards, the school’s theme for 2025 is Growing Better Together
The focus is on strengthening the values of Stedin College and Primary School excellence, integrity, perseverance and accountability
Eduvos, named SA s Best Private Higher Education Provider by PMR africa, is redefining learning with its student-centred approach
New facilities add to St Dominic’s Priory’s tradition of character development
Centre for faith, art and science, Olympic Astroturf provide new opportunities for school’s pupils
Located in Miramar St Dominic’s Priory School is well-known in Gqeberha as a place of academic learning and growth in virtue where truth revealed in Christ Jesus brings freedom and life
As an independent Catholic coeducation school in the Dominican tradition St Dominic’s is committed to quality forwardlooking education built on a foundation of eternal and enduring principles from grade Pre-R to grade 12
At the heart of our educational vision is our desire to form the whole child each of whom is treated as a gift from God
The intellectual spiritual physical and emotional development of every person on campus is fostered by our curriculum that integrates academic excellence and development of character
Critical thinking with a view to problemsolving and creativity is the hallmark of our teaching model from as young as grade PreR which always urges our pupils to seek what is true good and beautiful
With a strong focus on personal and spiritual development pupils are encouraged to explore their talents and participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities
These include sporting and cultural pursuits; they also include opportunities for community service and faith development
Collaboration teamwork and leadership development are integrated in our teaching process from early on and remain important for our staff too who are constantly engaging in professional development opportunities
St Dominic’s Priory School broke ground late last year on our first project: the Ryan Centre for Faith Science and the Arts
This multistorey facility offers a large multipurpose hall four tutor rooms two classrooms two computer labs and a 3D printer lab
Last week the school’s second project began with the construction of an Olympicsized Astroturf
This patented turf-technology will allow the pupils to play truly competitive hockey
Watching the campus transform is evidence of the R26m investment that St Dominic’s Priory School is making in the education of its pupils and eventually the broader community
It is a hub of 21st-century learning this is where it all begins!
EASILY ACCESSIBLE: St Dominic’s Priory School is located in Miramar in Gqeberha
TECHNOLOGICAL TEACHINGS: St Dominic’s Priory School pupils developing their digital skills Pictures: Supplied
Coca-Cola Beverages SA Coastal Region showcases company’s diverse career opportunities
Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa’s Coastal region has participated in several career fairs at tertiary institutions in Gqeberha in recent months with the aim of showcasing the diverse career opportunities available with the bottling company
CCBSA Coastal Region’s Talent & Development team were on hand to engage with young people at a Careers Fair at Varsity College in Greenacres as well as a previous one at Nelson Mandela Bay University The events saw current students as well as unemployed graduates attend as part of the company’s commitment to “act in ways that aim to help improve people’s lives from our employees to those who touch our business to the many communities we call home fostering inclusive growth opportunities
”
CCBSA Coastal covers KwaZuluNatal the Eastern Cape and also parts of the Western Cape provinces
Talent and People Experience Specialist in Gqeberha Lucretia Sauls said the career fair at the Greenacres campus offered the opportunity to connect with aspiring talent and showcase the diverse career paths available at CCBSA
“The career fair served as an ideal platform for us to engage with students and graduates providing insights into our company culture our values, and the opportunities available
“We showcased the varied career paths, from marketing to supply chain management and finance, to human resources,” Sauls said She added that within a company such as CCBSA, “there is such a wide range of roles linked to various fields of study and career aspirations
” The talent & development team from CCBSA were on hand to offer guidance at the careers fair, including how to approach crafting CVs and prepare for interviews
Tips for success
“Common but basic pitfalls are things like candidates making no eye contact, being overly shy or nervous, and not being able to articulate what involvement they have had in projects they were part of in university
“One of the worst is having a sluggish posture,” Sauls advised She said the majority of interviews these days were conducted online and so first impressions lasted even longer
“It is so important to prepare well and ensure you have the basics of online etiquette in place,” she said
“Checking for internet connectivity ahead of an interview and dialling into the session ahead of time is critical
“One can never be too prepared and it can help calm nerves and preinterview jitters
”
She advised including an executive summary highlighting key competencies, including details of projects students managed at university level, as well as any leadership roles
It was also important for candidates to know how to articulate themselves and share their strengths and development areas
She also stressed the importance of candidates taking the time to conduct proper research about the role and the business
“Interviewers can easily ascertain who have prepared properly and have made enough effort to understand the business, especially around their understanding of the market trends,” she said
What are employers looking for?
Soft skills such as communication and teamwork were critically important, Sauls said
“It is key for graduates to understand that in an organisation we
We showcased the varied career paths, from marketing to supply chain management and finance, to human resources
TALENT AND PEOPLE EXPERIENCE
SPECIALIST: Lucretia Sauls
work in teams and therefore collaboration is key to be successful in your role
“Communication builds sound relationships and that forms a fundamental building block to partnering well in a corporate environment
”
Other key skills needed for the
modern workplace were analytical skills, project management ability, and communication or relationship management skills
Creating a pathway
Sauls said career fairs such as the one held at Varsity College were vital in helping young people understand the requirements of corporates and to prepare them for the world of work
“By actively participating in events like these, we reinforce our commitment to nurturing local talent and contributing to the socioeconomic development of the communities we serve ”
One of the highlights of the career fair was the introduction of the CCBSA talent pipeline programmes
“These programmes are designed to equip young professionals with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to kick-start their careers
“By providing mentorship, training, and hands-on learning opportunities, our talent pipeline initiatives aim to bridge the gap between education and employment, empowering individuals to thrive in the workplace ” Young people needed to be made aware of the importance of things such as company values and corporate culture and understand how they could fit in and contribute
positively to an organisation and add value, she said
“My own role is to ensure that I anticipate human capital requirements and facilitate the creation of the desired culture within our organisation
“I also help devise and implement strategies to develop, retain, integrate, and deploy talent throughout the organisation to deliver high performance and ensure succession for the future ”
She said the careers fair presented a wonderful opportunity to share insights and key experiences with a young and eager-to-learn audience ready to make their mark in the world of work
CCBSA thanked the special events team at Varsity College for their “invaluable support” to make the career fair a success, “allowing us to effectively engage with attendees and make a meaningful impact”
“As we continue our journey towards building a diverse and inclusive workforce, events like the Varsity College career fair serve as key touch points for connecting with future talent
“By actively participating in such initiatives, we not only strengthen our employer brand, but also reinforce our commitment to creating opportunities for personal and professional growth ”
GUIDING YOUTH: Coca-Cola Beverages SA’s Coastal region recently participated in a Careers Fair at Varsity College in Gqeberha Pictures: Supplied
NEW SKILLS: Interview and Employability Enhancement Talk at NMU
